Saturday, April 30, 2005

Okay......first, why isn't tired an option in the moods? Or lazy or sleepy?

If You see this and don't know what is going on, I copied a game from Beckie's Bright Beginnings. (See two posts below.) You can play to if you want.

Beckie came to my journal and commented on the picture and post........so now I have to say a few words about Beckie.

Here we go! Beckie seems like the type of lady who's door almost never closes.........a home where people of all ages stop by day or night, invited or not and always have a warm welcome. She seems to be an optomist looking for good things in life and good things in people. And she probably mostly finds them, as she doesn't seem very judgmental. When she's tired or feeling down, she probably keeps it to herself (except for one or two closest confidants) and continues to smile at all around her. - Barbara

P.S. If I leave now, I'll probably get there about 3am on Monday morning....so have the door open and the food getting hot! (lol)

First to comment was Mary! And she doesn't have to wait till Monday.....since I stopped in to check my e-mail after playing a game w/Bug.

Mary must be an encourager. Because she is kind and gracious to new kid's on the block. Maybe a tad mischievious........but all in good fun! She's a crusader and probably an idealist. Since I am just beginning to know folks around journal land, I cannot rave on in a lot of detail. But the impressions I get from her journal and the interaction I have had with her lead me to believe she's the type of person we would all seek out for a friend. One to sit back and relax with. One to have fun with.......and one who wouldn't run when trials came upon you. - Thanks for all your kindness! Barbara

Okay ladies choose five from this list to answer in your journal. Then tag three others!.

The "questions":

If I could be a scientist...

If I could be a farmer...If I could be a musician...

If I could be a doctor...

If I could be a painter...If I could be a gardener...

If I could be a missionary...

If I could be a chef...If I could be an architect...

If I could be a linguist...

If I could be a psychologist...If I could be a librarian...

If I could be an athlete...

If I could be a lawyer...If I could be an inn-keeper...

If I could be a professor...

If I could be a writer...If I could be a llama-rider...

If I could be a bonnie pirate...

If I could be an astronaut...

If I could be a world famous blogger..

If I could be a justice on any one court in the world...

If I could be married to any current famous political figure.

Here are my own answers:

.Hey!! No fair! I was on base! - Okay, I give in. I am not sure if I answer here or what......so I am answering here. I am not certain if I can choose what you chose, so I'll do different ones.

IF I WERE A FARMER: I would like to have the elementary schools out at certain times of the year to help with planting or harvesting. I would give them a teaching tour of the farm. And I would like to send each child home with a sample of their harvest. I'd like to have my farm open to any in need in the community. But from what I have seen most folks don't want anything they have to pick themselves anymore.

IF I WERE AN ASTRONAUT: I really could shed those unwanted pounds instantly.....soon as I reached 0 gravity. I could say things like "Roger That Houston." I would see the most awesome scenery! Oh....and those wonderful little meals in a bag with all the Tang you want. Hey, Houston is close by....wonder if they are taking applications!

If I WERE AN INNKEEPER: I would want a charming old large country home where I rented out rooms. I would advertise to corporate types and folks stuck in the city. They'd not just get home cooked meals....they'd be adopted family while they stayed. Treated like a visting nephew, or aunt or cousin. There would be schedules activities, like a hog scrapping or fryiing out fat. The idea would be to have them leave feeling like they had been to great-grandma's house.

IF I COULD BE A JUSTICE: I'd want to be a Justice of the Peace. They can marry folks in Texas. And every one who came to me would get a crash course in Bibical Marriage 101. I'd like to present each couple I did agree to marry with a Family Bible. I might not get many customers...but I think the ones I wed would do better then most.

IF I WERE A PIRATE: I'd like to be a Robin Hood of the Waves. I'd stop big cruise ships and rob their vaults of all their gaudy jewels, then I'd make to port at some wee poor village. People would run to shore and swim to meet the boat for they'd have heard my legend. I would toss the jewels out among them. Then bid them bye whilest I go in search of another bonnie vessel.

I want to thank everyone that has contacted me to say they are being blessed or helped in some way by these devotions. Just goes to show God doesn't need a perfect tool.....just a tool! Seek His will and find out what kind of tool He would use you as.

1st a little background information: The book of Romans is one of the many that Paul authored for God. It summerizes Christian theology. Written around AD58, Nero was emporor of Rome at this time!

Today's verse is short and sweet: to the point. "...when a woman marries, the law binds her to her husband as long as he is alive. But if he dies, she is no longer bound to him; the laws of marriage no longer apply to her." Now Paul was using this as an illustration to another point about no longer being bound to the law for salvation thanks to Christ.

But in using it, He established it's truth for us even in New Testament times. God intends marriage to be a lifelong walk thru this world together. It is His highest aim and Ultimate Perfect will for men and women in their relationships.

So if you are married, recommit yourself to Christ and your spouse for a lifelong commitment. Decide now that you are in it all the way. Ask Jesus along for each step of the way.

If your single, see in this the importance of seeking God's will in choosing a spouse. The necessity of being like-minded in the things of God. The need to be equally yoked in Christ. Reject here and now the previlent notion that if it doesn't go well I can always leave. That thought, that mindset is not of Christ, but of the world. Your marriage will be in the world, but do not bring the world into your marriage.

Thanks to those who are faithfully viewing these devotions. May God use these humble offerings to enrich and bless your marriages and your lives!

Various thoughts and ramblings today. I got my crew up and off on time, so that was a good beginning. I have errands undone from yesterday to finish today.

I want to ask everyone that passes this way to pray for a 4-year old boy named Clay who has been diagnosed with a brain tumor. The doctors say he does not have long, even with treatment. Now I know this precious little one will be healed, I just pray it is His Will that he be healed here on earth, that his parents don't have to endure this horrific loss.

On another topic, check out the reasoning behind this will you!?

Hospital takes away Bibles in health move

FREDERICTON, New Brunswick (UPI) -- A Canadian hospital is drawing heat for taking away the Good Book in the interest of good hygiene.

Officials at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital in Fredericton, New Brunswick, removed all Bibles from patients' bedside tables in a quest to control infections, the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. reported Friday.

"We have disinfection processes to disinfect other surfaces, but we don't have anything to disinfect books," said Jane Stafford, a spokesperson for the River Valley Health Authority.

She said other Canadian hospitals had done likewise over the years and assured reporters her hospital has nothing against the Bible.

Still, the decision has raised questions about the hospital's motives.

----

Less germs, maybe.........but at what cost to total patient care?

I for one am looking forward to what I think will be a good weekend. Not that we have anything so special planned. In fact you can't plan ahead with my husband! All decisions as to what to do are last minute. Irritates anyone who invites us anywhere no end!

Oh....Pete walked down the pipeline yesterday evening to check on some tree limbs he saw down. While he was out there he heard some peeping and when he got to looking around he found two more baby chicks! It was quite a chase getting them with the woods, and the old trucks to ride under, but he and Bubba finally managed to catch them. So now there are 5 baby chicks in my bathroom! But the weather here is warming up......and they are eating up a storm.......so we will move them outside this weekend.

If I don't make it back with a post over the weekend.......Have a good, fun, restful, safe one! And please attend the church of your choosing on Sunday! They call it the Lord's Day.........give it to him!

Thursday, April 28, 2005

"I'm, late! I'm late! For a very important date!" keeps running through my mind. You know, the rabbit that is constantly checking his watch in Alice in Wonderland ! I overslept this morning. Should have been up at 4:00am Central. Crawled out of bed at 7:00 instead! And then only because the phone was ringing. A secretary from Pete's job. Oh, no! Pete is still asleep, of course, since he relies fully on me to get him up. He's already an hour late for work. The kids have just missed the bus! And they are still asleep, too!

Everybody....GET UP! Daddy is dressing. I help Bug hurry into her things! Bubba runs through the shower.....they all leave together about 7:45. He thankfully, will drop them on his way to work since he passed by both schools! See what a mess I made, just by oversleeping! And now, I missed most of my time on here with my friends also. Have to go run errands today, no doubt about it! I am out of bloodpressure meds. Pete has only one Prilosec and even the dog.....Zena the miracle dog.....(that's another story, another day) ....needs more pills! You think maybe my family is too dependent on me?

I remember waking up about 3:40 to all the dogs on the hill barking. And between that and my brother-in-law, Howard mentioning seeing a coyote by their house, I dreamed that a man had just wrestled down and caught three of them outside here and that I got up an opened the back door and saw him. Why three? (Pete, Bubba & Bug!) Anyway, I thought of just getting on up while I was awake then. But I wanted those other 20 minutes so much! I should have known I'd be in such a deep sleep I'd never hear the alarm.

I want to share a little funny story out of yesterday's AcraMax Joke E-mail. I think this perfectly illistrates God's permissive will and how he allows us sometimes to hang ourselves in it! Enjoy and may it teach you as it gives you a laugh! - Barbara

Golfing on Sunday The Reverend Francis Norton woke up Sunday morning and, realizing it was an exceptionally beautiful and sunny early spring day, decided he just had to play golf. So... he told the Associate Pastor that he was feeling sick and convinced him to say Mass for him that day.

As soon as the Associate Pastor left the room, Father Norton headed out of town to a golf course about forty miles away. This way he knew he wouldn't accidentally meet anyone he knew from his parish. Setting up on the first tee, he was alone. After all, it was Sunday morning and everyone else was in church!

At about this time, Saint Peter leaned over to the Lord while looking down from the heavens and exclaimed, "You're not going to let him get away with this, are you?"

The Lord sighed, and said, "No, I guess not."

Just then Father Norton hit the ball and it shot straight towards the pin, dropping just short of it, rolled up and fell into the hole. It WAS A 420 YARD HOLE IN ONE!

St. Peter was astonished. He looked at the Lord and asked, "Why did you let him do that?"

Here is a note: Mark 10 recounts the same instance as our look in Mattthew.

The apostle John was approxamately 25 years old when called by Jesus. Domitian banished him to Patmos. Afterward he pastured the Ephesus Church. John outlived the other apostles. Hence his grandfatherly tone in 1st, 2nd & 3rd John. The gospel of John reveals the Diety of Jesus in every chapter and was written that those who read it might believe in Christ.

These scriptures relate the story of Jesus' 1st public miracle. Though there is nothing here to teach us directly about marriage just the Saviors presence at the wedding holds significance! By attending the wedding he sanctified it. His presence there put His approval on the occasion. I submit to you dear sisters that Christ's presence is at (in) each and every marriage. Marriage is never a partnership of two people but of three persons. Whether you are saved, unsaved, whatever, Christ is a partner in the marriage! The problem is, all too often He is the silent partner!! Not by His chosing or because He has nothing to say or contribute, but because we shut him out. God never "butts in" where He is not invited. So, if you want the power and love of Christ flowing thru your marriage invite Him! The True Place for Christ in any marriage is at the Head. Like a triangle, Christ is the top point and Head. Man and wife are the bottom points and equal. Communication and love can flow freely around the lines of the triangle.

Dear Sisters, if Christ is not at the Head of your marriage, please pray today and invite Him to take the full priviledge of His place in the partnership!

25. And my favorite: My mother taught me about JUSTICE. "One day you'll have kids, and I hope they turn out just like you!"

I recieved this in a daily joke subscription that I receive from Acra Max Publishing. http://www.arcamax.com/cgi-bin/news This link will take you to their home page. I really enjoy them......they are always clean and family friendly!

Good Morning to all! It was 60 degrees here this am and I feel like I am freezing! All because it had gotten so very warm and now it has cooled off again.

There is no real news or things in my mind to ponder today, so I thought for the personal side I would share one of my favorite e-mail forwards. I love this because it so perfectly describes what happens to my days! This is why when hubby comes in and asks "What did you do all day?" I am at a loss for words.

Recently, I was diagnosed with A. A. A. D. D. - Age ActivatedAttention Deficit Disorder. This is how it manifests:I decide to water my garden.As I turn on the hose in the driveway, I look over at my car and decide my car needs washing.As I start toward the garage, I notice that there is mail on theporch table that I brought up from the mail box earlier. I decide to go through the mail before I wash the car.I lay my car keys down on the table, put the junk mail in thegarbage can under the table, and notice that the can is full.So, I decide to put the bills back on the table and take out thegarbage first.But then I think, since I'm going to be near the mailbox when I takeout the garbage anyway, I may as well pay the bills first.I take my check book off the table, and see that there is only onecheck left.My extra checks are in my desk in the study, so I go inside thehouse to my desk where I find the can of Coke that I had beendrinking.I'm going to look for my checks, but first I need to push the Cokeaside so that I don't accidentally knock it over. I see that theCoke is getting warm, and I decide I should put it in therefrigerator to keep it cold.As I head toward the kitchen with the Coke a vase of flowers on thecounter catches my eye--they need to be watered.I set the Coke down on the counter, and I discover my readingglasses that I've been searching for all morning.I decide I better put them back on my desk, but first I'm going towater the flowers.I set the glasses back down on the counter, fill a container withwater and suddenly I spot the TV remote. Someone left it on thekitchen table.I realize that tonight when we go to watch TV, I will be looking forthe remote, but I won't remember that it's on the kitchen table, soI decide to put it back in the den where it belongs, but first I'llwater the flowers.I pour some water in the flowers, but quite a bit of it spills onthe floor..So, I set the remote back down on the table, get some towels andwipe up the spill.Then I head down the hall trying to remember what I was planning todo.At the end of the day:.....the car isn't washed,.....the bills aren't paid,.....there is a warm can of Coke sitting on the counter,.....the flowers don't have enough water,.....there is still only one check in my check book,.....I can't find the remote,.....I can't find my glasses,.....and I don't remember what I did with the car keys.Then when I try to figure out why nothing got done today, I'm reallybaffled because I know I was busy all day long, and I'm reallytired.I realize this is a serious problem, and I'll try to get some helpfor it, but first I'll check my e-mail.Do me a favor, will you? Forward this message to everyone you know,because I don't remember to whom it has been sent.Don't laugh -- if this isn't you yet, your day is coming!I do not know who originally authored this hilarious piece, but to them I owe a debt of gratitude! You have comforted me in ways you will never know!

Today we move into the new testament. Starting in the Gospel of Matthew we will get a look at what our Savior had to say about marriage. Bible FYI: The gospel of Matthew was written with the Jew in mind. It protrays Jesus as King, the fulfilllment of Old Testiment prophecy.

We will be in Chapter 19: 1-12. The Pharisees that questioned Jesus weren't truly seeking answers. Their aim was to get Jesus to in some way blaspheme God so they could discredit him. But no matter what their intentions were, we are left with a record of where our Lord stood on marriage and divorce. A plainly stated revelation of God's intent.

vs. 4 - 1st Jesus asked whether they read scripture. God has supplied us with a handbook for living THE LIFE. It, along with the Holy Spirit as a tutor is all we need for guidance, morals, lifestyle choices, our world view, etc. Never let anything I or any other person says override what the word and the Spirit say to you. If they agree, fine...the word is from God. If they do not, and you are sure you have remained close to Him thru study and prayer, then discard the one and cling only to His Word.

In vs 5 & 6 Jesus restates the commandment of Moses and the words of Genesis. A man and a woman in a bond together like no other and above all others, save our relationship to God. In God's perfect plan there is no room for divorce. If each person in the relationship submitted to God and to each other, there would be no need! But unfortunately not all are children of God. Nor do all of God's Children always seek or remain in His will.

In vs. 8 & 9 we see that it pains our Lord, but divorce for adultery is allowed by God. But this He allows as part of His Permissive Will. Recognizing how hard the human heart can be. If you get divorced for other reasons, you set you and your former mate up to commit adultery in future relationships. This is because in God's eyes you are not even divorced! Now let's settle here awhile. Must I divorce an adulterus mate? No. Of course not. If there is repentance and with God's help you can work thru to forgiveness then the marriage can be healed and made better than before. Mine is living proof! I divorced my husband for other reasons, what now? If you are already divorced for other reasons, don't dispare! There is only one unforgivable sin and that is rejecting the Holy Spirit. You can be forgiven for the divorce and any thing you did leading up to it. True repentance is the key. And you must forgive yourself and go on, for God remembers our sin no more!

Just make sure as we see in verses 10-12 that you seek God's will for you in all present and future relationships. For some it is better to marry and for others it is not. The apostle Paul will get into this more indepth as we continue the series.

For any out there recovering from this thing called divorce I pray for you peace, healing, and a full and restored relationship with Christ. For any who are considering it or may have it forced upon them by a spouse I pray Jesus grant you strength, wisdom, and insight into His will.

Tuesday, April 26, 2005

Okay, I am starting this entry for the second time! Got called away to prayer....but that's OK. That's our job. All who belong to Christ! I feel good today! The Lord has blessed me with sunshine and good friends. And I had a great day yesterday with the kids!

They were home from school, though I never was really sure of the reason!?!? I sent Hubby Pete of to work and relaxed with coffee and this on-line world while the kids slept in. It is amazing what time for mom can do for a mom's attitude and outlook! Around 10 (I'm in the Central Standard Time zone.) I woke the kids and while they dressed I made out a list. Then we all headed for town. I went by the Credit Union to make a deposit 1st thing.....so I wouldn't fool around and forget. Then we stopped off into Dollar General.

Do they have those all over? I like to get certain items there......they are cheaper than anyone on generic over the counter meds and nuts and snack crackers..... I digress. Last Friday would have been my wonderful mother-in-law's bithday. But the Lord chose to take her home in January of 2004. So, while we were there, the kids picked out the silk flowers and then we went to the graveyard. We left her some large bright red roses. Hazel sure loved red if ever a woman loved red! And it felt good to remember her together.......and for once none of us cried. This was the last grandparent my children had on the face of this earth, so it has been very hard for them. And of course it was hard on Pete, being her son. But it was also one of the hardest losses I ever had. She was a warm, funny lady. The life of the party at one time. She just took me right in and treated me with respect from the beginning. So she was a good mother-in-law (yes, there are a few!) and she was on of my best friends. I had lost my mother two years before I married Pete and over time and the years, (we've been married 21) she became a surrogate mother to me. When Christ got my wondering attention 12 years ago and drew me back to Him, I began to pray for my husband and his entire family's salvation. Hazel was saved shortly thereafter. And I was priveledged to witness her baptizim! There after, we embarked on a brand new relationship.....that of Sisters in Christ. And no one has ever had better!

So, it may sound selfish to say, but I lost four people the day she passed. Four of the most important people in my life.

But that was not the main story.......lol. Me and the kids shopped at Wally-World and then had lunch together at Mickey-D's. (That's Barbara-speak for Wal-mart and McDonald's.) And it was pleasant! We had conversation! Just the kids and me. We got the groceries and headed for home. They helped me bring the bags in and while i put things away, they went blackberry picking. Now we have some huge tame blackberries, but very few of them are ripe yet......so mostly it was actually what we call dewberries that they picked. Down the road. In the curve. At the old Williams Compresser Station. (This is oil country, remember.)

When we were all finished, we got back in the car and went up to Fred to return a borrowed cooler and to pick up some catfish that Pete's cousin had for us. Glad he is retired and just fishes his life away! Back at home I started off the gumbo we had for supper and the kids messed around in the yard and did chores. Bubba came in the house with a baby wood-duck! Seems it had been caught in our fence and he had a notion we'd keep it inside as a pet. Bug was all for it! Mama said "NO". Take the baby back to the pond and let it go just as near it's family as you can. Of course we all petted the little soft downey thing first!

Later on, Pete got in from work. Seems he had stopped by Wally-World himself to get a new weedeater and went on back to layaway while he was there and got the car stereo that Bubba had back there out for him! Were we all shocked! But was that one happy boy! The shrimp gumbo was deliciuos and we all had more than we should............So that was my very good day with the kids.

Before I leave, I want to give you an animal update. The three baby chicks in our bathroom are thriving and surviving! Won't be long we can move them to a pen outside. Hopefully before they can hop out of their box!

Our Tennessee Walking horse still has no foal! Her name on the papers is Immaculate Conception.........I am beginning to think it should have been Perpetually Pregnant! I least maybe I'll have film and money for a disk of pictures by then, so you can all rejoice with us!

I have to do like the teens now and give a shout-out to my dear sister Joyel:

Hello one and all! Welcome to my journal and this series. I pray that is serves it's intended purpose which is to get you looking into the Word of God and seeking His will for you and your life as a spouse. Never blindly accept anyone's comments or teachings on scripture. Always examine them against the Bible and the Spirit!

Today's verses are listed in my concordance under the heading: Wives/good. Truly, God intended for wives to be a good thing in a man's life. Was not Eve provided to be a helpmate? We hold a very powerful position in our men's lives. How we treat them, interact and respond to them can have a profound impact on all other areas of his life. Therefore, to paraphrase a little, before you get after the splinter in his life that irritates you or disappoints you, check for the board in your own life. It may be true you can't change him, but you can change you. When you change you, he has something new to react to. See what brings out the best in your man.

"A worthy wife is her husband's joy and crown; the other kind corrodes his strength and tears down everything he does." Prov. 12:4 TLB Pray and ask the Lord to show you which kind of wife you are in each area of your relationship. Since your life is tied up in his it behooves you to help him be the best he can be, to help him succeed in each area of his life as it will surely impact your life!

"The man who finds a wife finds a good thing; she is a blessing to him from the Lord." Prov. 18:22 TLB Wow! Now that is awesome. We are one of God's blessings to our spouse. Consider are we worthy of that title? Do we honor God in this or bring shame to His Holy Name? There is a song that says "make me a channel of blessing today...make me a channel of blessing I pray." Let us ask Him each day how we can be that channel of blessing for our husbands.

"...and a nagging wife annoys like constant dripping." Prov. 19:13 TLB Okay. I know my husband sometimes thinks just to mention that something isn't working right (That commode stopped up again.) is nagging. There are times when I don't tell him something or remind him of something, then it is...shame on me for letting him forget! There are others when I do and then it's will you please get off my back! But I strive to filter things likethis by asking myself if he truly needs to know. What will happen if he does forget? That kind of thing. So he won't feel he is getting so much nagging. But we all know there is the other kind. The whinny, mean-spirited, implying he's failing in some way kind of nagging. Well, stop it! Stop it because it isn't Godly and because it WILL NOT yield the results you are looking for. It will only make him reclusive, drive him to avoid you, ignore you.

Read thru and pray and meditate upon Proverbs 31:10-31 The following is an outline from a sermon upon these verses:

1. She is trustworthy.2. She builds you up and is a good companion.3. She works hard in her home and for her family.4. She gets up early and is available at any time.5. She gives wise advice to her family.6. She has compassion for those outside her family.7. She is prepared for every need and situation.8. She takes care of her appearance.9. She adds to and aids your reputation.10. She is optimistic and hopeful.11. Kindness and pleasant words are her qualities.12. She loves God and puts Him 1st.

May this be a blessing to your heart and home. Please spread the word about this site and this series! Please share what God has spoken to your heart. Confused about something, ask a question. Need prayer, an accountably partner or mentor? Send me an e-mail with your request: BHbnEr2Him@aol.com .

Monday, April 25, 2005

Greeting to all! I am very thankful and encouraged by the comments and replies I have recieved! My hope is that this journal will not only provide a little diversion, but may minister to a heart here and there along it's way. Jesus said "Go ye therefore...." in the Great Commision. When you break it back down to the original language it translates more....."as ye go." Along our way, in our day, wherever we may be.

I am glad to report that Bug is feeling better and better! She was even fighting with Bubba yesterday. lol Poor hubby was hobbled all weekend with an attack of gout. We have recently learned of a man who claims a certain B vitamin supplement helped him more than ordinary gout pills. My sister Edna put us on to that. She even went so far as to buy him a bottle! I will try to pick it up from her soon, so he can give it a go. If it really is all that helpful, I will certainly pass that along.

Well, hubby brought in 3 motherless baby chicks on Saturday evening! They are in a boot box in our master bathroom with an electric heater running nearby. So sweet! Thankfully these are eating their biddy-feed and drinking water! For those who don't know, they learn to eat from example and often times when no hen is around they can starve to death with food and water right before them. Sort of like us spiritually sometimes! How many have a Bible laying around nearby but starve for the Word because we are too busy to pick it up? We thirst for help and comfort, yet we never come to Him in prayer? Please, whomever you may be, get in the Word! There are just too many easy to read translations about these days, many with wonderful illistrations and applications right inside! There are Bibles on tape, on video and on-line! A medium for every person and every situation.

Personally I had a great Sunday am with the kids in Children's Church. Only three little girls yesterday, but it was good! They like to roll a basketball at empty 2-liter bottles .......we call it bowling. (redneck bowling!) And I was having a time keeping them focused on the memory verse, as their little minds were already upon the bowling.....usually it is a reward for lessons well done. So I stopped fighting a useless battle and set up the bottles, gave them the ball and said, you will repeat the memory verse before each turn at bowling. Hey! Those sweeties really knew their verse when they left! And were bowling strikes and spares everywhere!

Well.......time to mosey on.....I want to read some other journals and give a shout out to some folks in IM's.

Have a great and blessed day!

Barbara

P.S. - Did I tell ya'll we have a family of woodducks that have returned to our pond for the second year?!

Tip from me to you - Keep those priorities in order! What order? #1 God, #2 Hubby, #3 Children, #4 Your Local Church, then everybody else. I am guilty of recently getting mine skewd about, so careful there sisters!

Psalms 128 is a picture of a family happy and content with each other and in the Lord. Read the whole short chapter, but we will focus on verses 1 & 3. The Living Bible Translation. "Blessings on all who reverence and trust the Lord-on all who obey Him.... Your wife shall be contented in your home."

Okay, blessings on ALL who reverence, trust and obey the Lord. That includes me and you. That is why it is so important to make sure we are the women, wives, mothers, friends, etc. that He desires us to be. And there is just no way to know that, to be that without Bible study and prayer. Now by context, this was applied to a man who led his household in this lifestyle. If you have a man like that, praise the Lord for Him and thank him. If your husband isn't there yet, then claim it for yourself as the spiritual head of the household by default. Do all you can to honor God as a spouse. He will bless it and use it, perhaps even to get your husbands attention and get him on track. (Notice I said God would use it, not you. There is nothing more unappealing than a wife (or hubby) on a soapbox.) Let your actions honor Him and then His Spirit can use your actions in the hearts and lives of others.

Content wives. Is that an oxymoron?! Just kidding. Half the battle is in the mind. The glass can be half full or half empty. If you are a child of God you should know that it truly is always on the full side. There is always more. It will never run out. He is inexhaustable!

But pratically, no matter how content or discontent you are, express your contentment to your husband. Let him know the things your appreciate in him. Look for and seize every chance to affirm his actions. Bite your tongue some when you're not so content. You really do catch more flies with honey than vinegar! So sweeten it up. Pour a little sugar on it. Unless he really is from Mars, he will appreciate it and respond to it in positive way to get more of it.

Saturday, April 23, 2005

My prayer is that these devotionals will be a blessing to someone. If at least one marriage becomes more devoted to God, gets stronger, heals from some hurt then it is worth any time or effort I spent on this. This is in obedience to God for what He showed me and what He did in my own marriage!

Today's verses come from Ezra, Nehemiah and Jerimiah.In Ezra 9:10 and Nehemiah 13, we see that once again the Isrealites were turning their backs on what was God's way and God's will. In part they had not followed His will in choosing whom to marry. This among other transgressions had them exiled from the Promised Land for several decades. There is always a price to pay when we don't follow God's leadership. And we should never swerve in our devotion to God for any man.

In Jeremiah Chapter 3 we hear the Lord say to Isreal, "But though you have left me and married many lovers, yet I have invited you to come to me again," vs1 TLB God's mercy and grace run so deep! He stood ready to forgive and restore Isreal time and again if they would only admit their sins and turn back to God. That same God stands ready to do that for us. And shouldn't we stand ready to do that for our spouse? Strive to forgive as He forgives (he remembers our sin no more). To love as He loves (He loves us just as we are). Sanctify your love as he sanctifies us. ( Set aside for a special relationship.) Enable and empower your mate as the Holy Spirit does for us! We won't get it right every time in this world. But that IS our cross that we bare. To get up each day and strive to live better, more like Him, then we did the day before.

May God go before you today and may His love follow you every where you go!

Friday, April 22, 2005

I had to take my Hannah Bug to the doctor today. Second day home from kindergarten with the soar throat! Has hurt so bad at times that she cried tears! How I wish I had a digital camera and all that jazz. Bug is a real Texas cutie! Golden strawberry blonde hair down to her hips, pug nose, big blue eyes framed by dark long lashes. A sprinkling of freckles across her cheeks and nose, from lazy country days in the sun. She has a way with animals. She fears none and they trust her. She's a lefty: the artistic type. She can color and cut as good as I can. Smart as a whip too. All "E's" on her report cards. Generous heart. Gives her money away to people who come by to visit, cause she "has too much!" You'd love Bug! Well, the Dr. said it was strep throat. But she did not have a severe case. No rash. No fever. So a round of anti-biotics and she should be good as new. Of course we're gonna milk this cow for all it is worth! Had to stop by Brookshire Bros. and get all the soft treats: yogert, sherbert, pudding, icecream. Cost near as much as the doctor visit! The things you do to keep those eyes shining bright! And to buy mom a little piece & quiet. LOL Think I'll make my way off of here and hunt up a nap! Don't be surprised if I am scarce and hard to find on the weekends. We play them by ear! Sometimes I am actually on-line more.....but usually way less. Have to spend time with the family! Not to mention all those "huney-dos" and "since-u-was" things that keep me busy.

God bless & keep you all. And go to church on Sunday! It's your day of rest and relaxation from the Lord God. The least you can do is spend some time visiting with Him and the "family."

Welcome to Our Devotionall Series! The book of Deuteronomy is a retelling of the law. Address that Moses delivered to the people before they entered the promised land to remind them of the covenant they had with God. It had been established 40 years earlier after the exodus from Egypt. This is the book our Savior quoted from most often!

Deut. 7:3&4, "Do not intermarry with them, nor let your sons and daughters marry their sons and daughters. That would surely result in your young people's beginning to worship their Gods." TLB

Moses was referring to the people who inhabited the promised land. They did not know, acknowledge or worship Jehovah God. They worshiped pagan, false Gods. Often included in their worship were idols, temple prostitutes and sacrifice of children. These things were all abhorent to God and expressly forbidden for the Isrealites. God had called them out to be a seperate Holy people unto Him.

God knew then and now that if we mix in with other people of different beliefs their ideas and practices will begin to rub off on us. Love for a mate of opposing belief could lead us astray from our first love, Jesus.Therefore, then and now it is His ultimate will for us to marry within our faith. If marriage is in Gods plan for your life then He has a Godly mate out there somewhere that he wil lead you to.

Now, that said, we should not dump or leave a mate that we married when we were seperate from God. It is within His permissive will that we should remain with them for as long as they will have us. (More on this when we get to the writtings of Paul) We should lead Godly lives before them and pray for their salvation. If you are single, you should be praying now for the mate you may one day have. If we are Christian, we should always seek God's will before we inter into marriage. Unfortunately even among Christians it is more often a matter of lust and desire, will they give me what I want ie. social standing, economic security,etc.

Myself, I was a Christian when I met my spouse. But I had not yet learned to let Jesus be Lord of my life or how to seek His will. I was not living the lifestyle, walking the walk. My dear husband is unsaved. It has brought issues and struggles into our lives that Christian couples can often though not entirelly avoid. Please join me in praying for his salvation that this home and marriage may be united fully in Christ.

One more thing. This verse has been used, missused to promote bigotry and hate. To claim that God sees color when he looks at His children. This is not true. . It is false doctrine. God's only concern was for spiritual harmony and purity in our relationships.

Have a great day in the Lord! And please add your reply. Insights, testimonies, prayer requests. I need a blessing too! I hope this has been a blessing unto you.

Thursday, April 21, 2005

So on Monday I had to go into town and buy groceries, run some errands. I had finished the errands and pulled up to the grocery store. I sat in my car for awhile sorting thru some pictures, finding the ones I wanted to send to my dear sister Sherine in India. When I finished, I grabbed my purse and my grocery list and bounced out of the car. Right as the door was closing I realized I was hearing that irritating chime. HHUUMM. Now my car makes the same awful sound for doors ajar, light on, key on, not in park, seat belt unbuckeled......you name it! I slowly lean over and peer in the window. Out of the numerous possibilities for the chime it had to be this one! My keys were in the ignition!

No.....no spare set on me! No spare set at the house! Spare set is in hubby's wallet out in the oilfield somewhere! At first I want to sink into the pavement and cry. Then I wanted to get angry and stomp off walking.....no where, any where. But then a voice seems to say, you can choose to make this what you will. So I take a breath, laugh, shake my head and call my sister to come and get me. Me & hubby will return for the car later. Sis says let her call her son-in-law who works at a transmission shop in town. Turns out they open cars. He sent a guy who had it open in no time! Perfect timing too.....as I had just finished my shopping. Thank you dear Jesus who sees all our circumstances! Bless Edna, Sam, Gene and the sweet employee!

Welcome Back! Scriptures in this devotion are centered around some things not to do. Reminder that quotes are from The Living Bible translation by Tyndale House. Please prayerfully consider these verses and commentary, leaning on the Holy Spirit to lead you into all understanding, and not me.

Today's verses will challenge some commonly held "world views." As Christians, our world view must be colored by God's Holy Word. Remember, we are to be in the world, not of the world.

Exodus 20:14 lists the 7th Commandment. "You must not commit adultery." Maybe you are thinking that you certainly have not. But remember our Lord expanded upon this to say that if you even lust in your heart you have committed adultery. If you have in the past, ask for His forgiveness now and His strength never to do it again. If you are currently harboring lust, then renounce it! Ask Jesus to fill you with disgust at the thought. Ask Him to give you desire for only your husband, that you may honor Him. If your spouse has issues here, then perhaps in this light you can take the 1st steps toward forgiveness of him. If you have committed these sins, then forgive yourself. When we repent (turn away from) our sin and ask His forgiveness he remembers our sin no more! We stand justified (just-as-if-I'd never) before God.

Think sex before marriage is OK!?! "If a man seduces a girl...and sleeps with her, he must...accept her as his wife." Exodus 22:16 If God expects that you should marry someone you slept with, then consider that sex was designed by God for marriage. It has no place apart from marriage.

Homo sexuality?! Beastiality!? God forbids such acts in Leviticus. "Homosexuality is absolutely forbidden, for it is an enormous sin. A man will have no sexual intercourse with any female animal...and a woman must never give herself to a male animal...this is a terrible perversion." 18:22 & 23 But it's genetic! Well, personally I seriously doubt the science there. But consider even if there was a genetic predisposition to deviant sexual behavior, most believe there is such a predisposition to addiction. That doesn't give them the right to be addicted or excuse them from the sin or the consequences of that sin. Same thing. Why is it such a perversion? Because it goes against the plan and order that God established at creation. The animals weren't suited to meet Adam's needs, so God created a mate for him. And she was Eve not Evan!

And now let us consider how much authority our husband has in our life. Especially if he is a Christian. In Numbers 30:10-15 we find, "If she is married and living in her husbands home when she makes the vow (to God), and her husband hears of it and does nothing, the vow shall stand; but if he refuses to allow it on the first day he hears of it, her vow is void and Jehovah will forgive her. So her may either confirm or nullify her vow,..." Wow! Maybe you should listen when hubby says you shouldn't have signed up to teach VBS again this year. Mainly, I want you to take away from this scripture an appreciation of just how much weight your husbands opinion can and should carry when you are deciding service and commitments to the Lord and the church. And then take it to God in prayer.

I hope this installment has challenged you to review your world view. I pray it empowers you to embrace a more biblical view. Remember, when these books were written, God had led the Israelites out of Egypt and was establishing them as a nation. A nation unto himself. A nation that was to be holy (set apart for God, pure). We are commanded to be Holy, even as our Lord is Holy. Now, no one will achieve it in perfection here and now but that is the cross we take up each day that we follow Him.

Wednesday, April 20, 2005

Any quotations here will be from The Living Bible by Tyndale House."It is not good that man should be alone; I will make a companion for him, a helper suited to his needs." vs18."God...took one of his ribs...and made the rib into a woman, and brought her to the man." vs 22"This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife in such a way that the two become one person." vs 24""...yet even so, you shall welcome your husband's affections, and he shallbe your master." 3:16

An interesting tidbit. NASA's Ames Research Center found every single element of the body exists in soil.

God knew man needed someone more like himself than any animal in creation for comfort, companionship and and the like. What he created was so like Adam, yet different and new. And yes, he said she was to be his helper. The word it is taken from "ezer" means partner. Not a slave, not an errand boy, a partner. Now partnerships are not always 50-50. And that truly makes sense. If I partnered with one of you to open an art gallery, all I could possibly do would be to answer the phone and type invoices. I know nothing of art and have no talent. If we divided profits 50/50 you'd probably soon view me as an expense. It might be more appropriate if you received 75 or 80%. It works that way in marriage too. The most successful rely more on a distribution according to talents, energy, suitably, etc., then pure equality. And the percentages are constantly changing and being rene, like variable rate credit cards. Sometimes one has to totally carry the other for a time. But the world would have you count each towel folded, each dollar earned, each meal prepared constantly checking to see if you were on the "losing" end. That's not God's way, he says give and then give some more. Check out the Beatitudes.

And God took a rib! How symbolic! Part of Adam. Essential. From his side, not his tail bone or his nose. We should stand beside our spouse, not striding out in front, nor bowing and scraping from behind. And also notice the location makes for a perfect place to be protected and sheltered under Adam's arm. A perfect fit. Let him protect you. It's his right and his responsibility. Society is trying to strip all the eloquence from simple courtesy (door opening) on up, until we are toe to toe with Adam instead of side by side. My husband puts it like this, I should be able to take care of most anything, but if I can't or someone won't listen, he'll step in. He's never had to. But there is an unspoken undercurrent, if you mess with her, I'll mess with you. May not be entirely biblical, but it is old fashioned. And I love it. It makes me feel empowered, not dominated.

And the man should leave his parents....not neglect them or write them off. But clearly separate his new home and family from them. In a way it is like the balance between the spouses, there will be times when it is agreed a parents needs must be put 1st. Or when their help and insight will be sought. But nothing and no one, not even dear sainted mother, should be between the couple or before the spouse.

The two shall become one. One plan, one destiny, one household, one unit. It symbolizes the intimate connection of sex. But it goes much deeper than that - to the heart and the mind and even the soul. You can't truly be happy if they aren't. Can't be satisfied if they aren't. Now, it's not always that way all the time. But it is the ideal that should be strived for. It deepens the relationship. Builds each partner up. Makes them the best they can be as a team and as individuals.

"And even so , you shall welcome your husband's affections." There will be more pertaining to this later in the study, but yes unless we are truly sick or have to leave right then to make it to work, or something other than "I'm just not in the mood." we should welcome them. 1st, it helps to strengthen him (and you) from outside lusts and temptations. 2nd, it's good therapy. It releases stress. Eases tensions. Helps you feel all warm and fuzzy toward each other. But don't panic! This is not carte blanc. Later we will hit on verses that make it clear he should always be sensitive to how you feel and what you need. After all, you are a part of him. What fool would want to hurt theirself?

I hope you received some insight, some blessing from this 1st installment. I do not want anyone to blindly accept what is here, but go to the Word. Check it out for yourself. Pray for insight and turn it over in your own heart. Let the Holy Spirit lead you into all understanding. This is here only to serve to get you thinking.

Monday, April 18, 2005

Hum.....So much to do and so little time! Monday is a race. The house is chaos after everyone home over the weekend. There is shopping to do. And bills to be paid. Plus my e-mail is usually overflowing as I am on-line less during weekends. Oh, and the laundry has always pile up AGAIN.......On the inside I feel happy and blessed! But outwardly I feel overwhelmed! There is no way it will all be done. May the Lord guide me to what is sufficient for the day! I want to try to copy a very encouraging little word that a dear Sister e-mailed to me. I call it Lucky Penny or Pennies from Heaven.

You always hear the usual stories of pennies on the sidewalk being good luck, gifts from angels, etc. This is the first time I've ever heard this twist on the story.

Several years ago, a friend of mine and her husband were invited to spend the weekend at the husband's employer's home. My friend, Arlene, was nervous about the weekend. The boss was very wealthy, with a fine home on the waterway, and cars costing more than her house.

The first day and evening went well, and Arlene was delighted to have this rare glimpse into how the very wealthy live. The husband's employer was quite generous as a host, and took them to the finest restaurants. Arlene knew she would never have the opportunity to indulge in this kind of extravagance again, so was enjoying herself immensely.

As the three of them were about to enter an exclusive restaurant that evening, the boss was walking slightly ahead of Arlene and her husband. He stopped suddenly, looking down on the pavement for a long, silent moment.

Arlene wondered if she was supposed to pass him. There was nothing on the ground except a single darkened penny that someone had dropped, and a few cigarette butts. Still silent, the man reached down and picked up the penny.

He held it up and smiled, then put it in his pocket as if he had found a great treasure. How absurd! What need did this man have for a single penny? Why would he even take the time to stop and pick it up?

Throughout dinner, the entire scene nagged at her. Finally, she could stand it no longer. She causally mentioned that her daughter once had a coin collection, and asked if the penny he had found had been of some value.

A smile crept across the man's face as he reached into his pocket for the penny and held it out for her to see. She had seen many pennies before! What was the point of this?

"Look at it." He said. "Read what it says." She read the words

"United States of America."

"No, not that; read further."

"One cent?" "No, keep reading."

"In God we Trust?" "Yes!" "And?"

"And if I trust in God, the name of God is holy, even on a coin. Whenever I find a coin I see that inscription. It is written on every single United States coin, but we never seem to notice it! God drops a message right in front of me telling me to trust Him? Who am I to pass it by? When I see a coin, I pray, I stop to see if my trust IS in God at that moment. I pick the coin up as a response to God; that I do trust in Him. For a short time, at least, I cherish it as if it were gold. I think it is God's way of starting a conversation with me. Lucky for me, God is patient and pennies are plentiful!

When I was out shopping today, I found a penny on the sidewalk. I stopped and picked it up, and realized that I had been worrying and fretting in my mind about things I cannot change. I read the words, "In God We Trust," and had to laugh. Yes, God, I get the message

It seems that I have been finding an inordinate number of pennies

I do not know the source of this little piece......to whomever I am grateful! I had to whittle out a little to have it fit here.

Sunday, April 17, 2005

"......and dance by the light of the moon!" Well, Bill at least was dancing! It was his birthday and they boiled 100#'s of crawfish to celebrate. Nice time. Good to get out, all of us together. Saw folks we hadn't seen for some time. Stayed too long for a Saturday night! Oh, have to be up by 9:00am at the very latest. The guys played washers and horseshoes. Some of us girls tried to play 42, but couldn't get four to commit to it.....so we setteled for Rummy. Don't know what got into Bug. She loves crawfish usually! Can peel and eat her own. But tonight she never had a single one. Well, I am turning in. Hope everyone has a good Sunday with the Lord! Nighty-night.

Saturday, April 16, 2005

I decided to share this here also. It is a post I made at a group I belong to called Sarai Women. Gives you an idea about how I think and pray......and may help someone who is scarred. God Bless Your Day!

Hello Sisters! I had to mow some today and strange as it may seem I do some of my best praying and meditating riding that mower. It drowns out the world and puts me in a cocoon. Any way, I was out there and praying. Lifting up some sisters who have been very hurt in the past and the present by others. And all of a sudden God brings Dr. Washburn to mind. Now Dr. Washburn was a real Texas style plastice surgeon. Complete with a cigar in the ER! When I was 11 and our family was hit by a man who fell asleep at the wheel, Dr. Washburn was on call and sewed us all up. Now in a few months me and mom went back to him, because our injuries were on our faces and we needed some surgery to look more normal again....for the scar to not be so noticable and prominent. Dr. Washburn feels and pushes and pokes on mother's scar and tells her to make an appointment with receptionist to set up the 1st of her surgeries in a couple of weeks. Then he turns to me and again he pokes, pushes and feels. Then he shakes his head and turns to mom and says....it'll be 4-5 years before we can do her. Mom is surprised and wants of course to know why. The doctor went on to explain that children's bodies were so busy growing that their scars actually healed slower than an adults. The scar tissue when new was stiff and hard. It had to get to the stage that it was soft and pliable before restoration could be done.

Now what I draw from this is that the scars on our hearts from hurts and unforgiveness are the same way!The places where we have been scarred by hurt and resentment can not be restored by our Lord until they become soft and pliable. It may take a lot of time, but the scars can soften and heal! Sometimes the best steps are to pray to forgive. And to pray FOR person who caused the hurt, not ABOUT them. Once you start praying for someone, even if you don't "feel" it at first, eventually you will. You have to take the steps and do the actions like you have forgiven and let the true forgiveness follow in behind.Then Jesus can sculpt and remake the damaged areas so that they are once again pleasing to His eye!

Just the thoughts of a sister on her mower. May you all be blessed with a Glorious Weekend in the Lord!

Friday, April 15, 2005

Well Good Friday afternoon! I have been at the laundry all morning and I think I see the bottom of the basket. Wow! That will last until the kids get home.

I have to go outside and do some things. Wash the mower for one. And I will have to go the the grocery store and get some hamburger meat so I can fix spegetti for supper tonight. It's Bug's favorite!

I have had the chance to talk to so many of my good friends this morning and yesterday evening. They are such a blessing! Women of Faith. Encouragement. They are friends and they are warm and funny and amusing. I got to speak to Sherine for the first time in what seems like ages!

She lives in India. But so much we share in common. More in common I think than different. She is so warm and sincere. I know you would love her.

I had an e-mail from dear Toni. Now she is in Zimbabwai . I have no idea how to spell it. She is a strong and delightful woman. Lord knows she has probably been thru things I can only imagine! She is one that comes up with those cute, inspiring or thoughful attachments and forwards to e-mail.

Then I have chatted in IM's with several sisters sprinkled thru out the US. Different colors. Different relationships. Different ages. But all a blessing to my day!

I just can't get over my amazement at having friends all over the world. Other folks that love the Lord Jesus. It feels like one huge church when we are together on-line. One intune with the Spirit and flowing with love.

But the very BEST BLESSING EVER is when I get an IM, e-mail, e-card or greeting saying, "Thank you sister, you brightened my day." or "You blessed me." Even "You made me laugh." Here I am just enjoying myself and getting to know people, responding to a mood, or a need as I can and God is using it to minister to and feed his flock! What an honor. What a priviledge!

To all my on-line sisters in every nook and cranny of the world I thank you for the opportunity to know you! I may never meet you face to face this side of Heaven, but you feel near enough to touch in my heart and soul.

Thursday, April 14, 2005

Okay! Here I go......got everything set. Color, style, and other stuff. I have asolutely no idea what I am doing! And I spent all my time today just figuring out this much! Oh, well. The front door is open. The sun is shining. The rooster is crowing, the birds are chirping, the dogs are frolicking. I've spoke to some good friends, sisters in Christ, this morning. Now it is time to get out of this old housecoat and get OUT! Time to wash out the hog pen and mow the very back of the yard. But that's all right! I like doing those things. Monotimous......HUH?......I can think and I can pray while I do these things. Then I have to come in and face the Pile. The Laundry pile that is! One day, hubby is gonna come in from work and though he searches high and low I will be nowhere to be found.....buried in a pile of laundry. How DO four people make that much laundry? I'll never figure it out. Now I know this is rambling, and that's okay. This is just sort of a test. Finding out how things work. I'll get better and it will get better. And if you put your two cents in too, it'll be a whole lot better! Have a great afternoon any who stop by! And may God bless your life and day!